Cars enjoy longer product lives and better performance when properly cared for. When you service your car regularly, it gives your vehicle a longer life and a better performance. Car servicing ensures that the engine oil and fluids are at their proper levels. The timing belt and spark plugs are replaced. Safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes are kept up to date. Additionally, the use of proper motor oils and filter replacements, a pH-balanced “Complete” package cleaner, and professional cleaning of your engine, transmission, and differential can help protect your car from premature wear. You can drive your car with confidence, knowing that it’s running as efficiently as possible.
It may seem like you always need to take your car in for service or that the timing is never quite right for major repairs. However, your schedule will be much easier to work with if you observe a regular maintenance schedule. If you’re wondering how often your car actually needs to be serviced, this article is for you. Read on.
Maintenance Reminder Systems
Don’t let your car maintenance slip away. Find out when it’s time for an oil change and more with the in-vehicle maintenance reminder system, which is built into most vehicles manufactured after 1996. If your vehicle is equipped with a system like this, simply let it guide your service schedule. But if you don’t put many miles on your car, follow the maintenance schedule provided in your owner’s manual.
Mileage-Based Servicing
Service based on mileage is usually less expensive because you don’t have to change your oil as often. The service schedule for most cars and light trucks built after 1996 is based on a combination of distance and time. The schedule outlined in the owner’s manual assumes that you drive under severe conditions, such as hot weather. If you are like most people, you live in a climate that is not always as hot as the Southwestern desert. In this case, investigate the maintenance interval your owner’s manual recommends for normal driving conditions before following its recommended service schedule.
Find a Reputed Service Center
Your car is a pretty major investment (considering you’ve spent a few thousands on it), so you need to protect it. Planning ahead for auto servicing can mean the difference between smooth sailing and a stalled vehicle in the middle of a busy intersection. So before you get in any trouble on the road, find a top-rated auto repair shop or technician you can trust. Stay away from mechanics who can’t provide proof that they are qualified to service your vehicle. Remember that not all auto shops are created equal. Given this, make sure to look for a service center or mechanic who can deliver quality work at an affordable price.
